team-member

Shawn Dougherty

Nitsche & Fredricks LLC 305 N Union St Wilmington DE 19805

Licensed for 33 years

Law Degree

Awards

Firm

Nitsche & Fredricks LLC

Primary Practice Area

Divorce and separation

Language

English

About

Rachel is an attorney at Nitsche & Fredricks LLC practicing in the areas of personal injury and workers' compensation. Rachel was born in Annapolis, Maryland. She attended Iowa State University, obtaining her B.A. in 2003 in Political Science and International Studies. She studied law at Penn State's Dickinson School of law where she served as an Editor on the yearbook of Arbitration and Mediation. Ms. Allen received her J.D. in 2010 and was admitted to the bar of the State of Delaware in March 2011.Rachel served as a Certified Legal Intern with the Penn State Family Law Clinic in 2009 and 2010. She then served as a Judicial Law Clerk to the Honorable Robert B. Coonin and the Honorable Arlene Minus Coppadge of the Family Court of the State of Delaware from 2010 to 2011. Rachel then worked for a regional defense law firm, where she represented several insurance companies. Based on this background, Rachel has an understanding regarding how insurers value claims.

Practices Areas

Medical Malpractice

Personal Injury

Divorce and separation

Family

Language

English

Contact

305 N Union St Wilmington DE 19805

Office: 3026554040

Website: https://www.nitschefredricks.com/rachel-d-allen.html

Reviews

J Lauer
April 22, 2016

Shawn is truly one of the most honest and educated lawyers I have ever come in contact with. She handled a very complex and high tension case with confidence ensuring the law was properly enforced. I am honored to be her client she never gave up. Shawn guaranteed my child's safety and defended my family's the best interest. I recommend Shawn Dougherty to anyone who is seeking a honest upfront lawyer that you can depend on. I can't thank her enough!

RobG
January 20, 2014

I use this attorney every time I need a a Family Law Lawyer. If your looking for somebody who is going to hold your hand or pat you on the back and tell you everything is going to be ok then this is not your lawyer. If your somebody who has their facts together and don't try to feed her a load of bull then she will fight for you. If you want to win and your not looking for a baby sitter then this is your lawyer. Great job Shawn. Thank you!!!!!!!

Jill G.
December 14, 2021

I will never refer another client to her. In my opinion, these 88% “1 star” reviews are totally accurate and you’re wasting your money on an overpriced lawyer who does nothing for her clients except send huge bills after berating them.

anonymous
November 19, 2021

I contacted Shawn Dougherty by referral and had a very thorough, educated consultation with her, which led me to hire her. It's been a nightmare since. Divorce is something I know absolutely nothing about and expected professional support and guidance-- no hand holding, no hugs as I have people in my life for that if needed.. I know nothing more about it now except that all of my questions are stupid and I talk too much for her when I've always been accused of not talking enough by anyone else. The divorce is simple, uncontested and amicable so there is not a lot of work involved but I couldn't figure out why this woman disliked me so much until I read these reviews. I now understand that this is simply who she is, not who I am. I've always had a healthy educational relationship with lawyers so it's a relief to know it's the personality I'm dealing with. So to avoid being yelled at and mocked, I simply do not call and I do not ask questions. If I need to know something, I've been informed via email so I know that will continue. It's just a shame that in the midst of dealing with something so emotional anyway, your bigger enemy turns out to be the person who is supposed to be the one fighting for you.

anonymous
May 4, 2021

Shawn was rude and condescending during our consultation. She made assumptions about my case and attacked my character with no reason to. I couldn’t even get a word in during our meeting to explain my circumstances yet she couldn’t stop telling me what I was doing wrong. Would not recommend.

anonymous
October 12, 2020

My experience with Shawn Dougherty has not been pleasant. During the time that I had her representing me, I never really felt she was on my side, or in my best interest – which is literally what I was paying her to do. 1. She always seemed to be in favor of the other party. a. Whatever the other party wanted she would want that too instead of asking me what I want. Even in the courtroom, she wouldn’t even save me when the other party tried to pin me down. 2. She would show unprofessionalism towards me in front of the other party. a. There had been several times where she has used profanity towards me – literally cursed at me – in front of the other party. 3. She basically used my winnings as retainer. a. When my case was finally finished, she held my money claiming it was not “ready to be picked up yet”. The money that I had won in court exceeded her retainer fee, and she held on to the money well after my case was over. When she finally let me come pick up my money, significantly less because she charged me for unnecessary fees that would not have existed if she had just given me my money when I won it. 4. Poor communication. a. My case had many intricate details that were necessary for her to be aware of in order to successfully argue in my favor. I rarely had a chance to inform her of these details, and when I did, I had to rush through it to make sure I could get out everything. Throughout the whole process she really didn’t know too much about the case. b. Shawn Dougherty and her paralegal would sign and submit documents without even letting me see the draft. She rarely updated me on what she was doing. At the end of the day, it’s all about the money for her, she’s made that quite clear. She doesn’t care about the case. Listen to me, listen to the other reviewers, because what we’re saying is valid. Get a lawyer that actually cares about your case.

anonymous
August 25, 2020

She was referred to me & I wish I had saw reviews first. First & foremost, if I wanted to be mistreated I would have stayed married. Her tone is extremely unprofessional and makes you question who she represents! She appears rushed & never has time to talk to you even though you’re paying for the call? I dread every time I need to hold a conversation with her. She’ll tell you - if you need a shoulder to cry on I’m not the attorney for you. No what I needed is an attorney who works for me and does her job regardless of how large the case is. Despite the size of the case all clients deserve proper representation. I run a business myself & ALL of my clients are important to me. She runs her business off the size of your wallet not the level of your needs. There’s were multiple issues unresolved and she flat out refused to address them. I’d not recommend her services to anyone - go find someone who is worth the money and wants to work for what you deserve! Do your research and think twice - wish I did!

anonymous
February 13, 2018

This attorney is representing my sister. We think she is anyway. So far, she's been rude, non communicative, and condenscending. My sister is afraid to call her. It's a total crap shoot as to what the end result will be. She came highly recommended, however, I will not be one to recommend her to anyone. It's a difficult enough time w out your lawyer acting like she's a putz. She has a way of making you feel she's playing for the other team. Hey lawyer lady, hows about you take less work and spend more time with your clients? Yuck

anonymous
February 10, 2018

I guess calling your attorney for advice is not what you are supposed to do with Ms. Doughtery. I would rarely call her, but when I did, she acted like I was bothering her and would snap at me. I dreaded the phone conversations with her. She had no idea who I was or what my case was about, She forgot everything we talked about two months prior. She seems afraid to go in front of the judge. She came highly recommended, but do not ever hire her.

anonymous
January 25, 2018

First of all the picture associated with this lawyer at the top is not accurate. Shawn Dougherty is a female. Secondly, find yourself a different lawyer! Unless you are extremely wealthy, she will not have the time for you. You will be just another "garden variety" divorce to her which means you are bothering her with phone calls and questions. I rarely called her and when I did she was short tempered and rude. Her assistant would email me to call Shawn and when I did Shawn would yell at me asking why I was bothering her. When I would explain her assistant told me to call she would tell me she didn't know why and would review my file and call me back. She never looked at my file before calling me which meant our conversation was a waste of time. I dreaded having to talk to her. I wish I would have chosen someone else.

J Lauer
April 22, 2016

Shawn is truly one of the most honest and educated lawyers I have ever come in contact with. She handled a very complex and high tension case with confidence ensuring the law was properly enforced. I am honored to be her client she never gave up. Shawn guaranteed my child's safety and defended my family's the best interest. I recommend Shawn Dougherty to anyone who is seeking a honest upfront lawyer that you can depend on. I can't thank her enough!

RobG
January 20, 2014

I use this attorney every time I need a a Family Law Lawyer. If your looking for somebody who is going to hold your hand or pat you on the back and tell you everything is going to be ok then this is not your lawyer. If your somebody who has their facts together and don't try to feed her a load of bull then she will fight for you. If you want to win and your not looking for a baby sitter then this is your lawyer. Great job Shawn. Thank you!!!!!!!

Jill G.
December 14, 2021

I will never refer another client to her. In my opinion, these 88% “1 star” reviews are totally accurate and you’re wasting your money on an overpriced lawyer who does nothing for her clients except send huge bills after berating them.

anonymous
November 19, 2021

I contacted Shawn Dougherty by referral and had a very thorough, educated consultation with her, which led me to hire her. It's been a nightmare since. Divorce is something I know absolutely nothing about and expected professional support and guidance-- no hand holding, no hugs as I have people in my life for that if needed.. I know nothing more about it now except that all of my questions are stupid and I talk too much for her when I've always been accused of not talking enough by anyone else. The divorce is simple, uncontested and amicable so there is not a lot of work involved but I couldn't figure out why this woman disliked me so much until I read these reviews. I now understand that this is simply who she is, not who I am. I've always had a healthy educational relationship with lawyers so it's a relief to know it's the personality I'm dealing with. So to avoid being yelled at and mocked, I simply do not call and I do not ask questions. If I need to know something, I've been informed via email so I know that will continue. It's just a shame that in the midst of dealing with something so emotional anyway, your bigger enemy turns out to be the person who is supposed to be the one fighting for you.

anonymous
May 4, 2021

Shawn was rude and condescending during our consultation. She made assumptions about my case and attacked my character with no reason to. I couldn’t even get a word in during our meeting to explain my circumstances yet she couldn’t stop telling me what I was doing wrong. Would not recommend.

anonymous
October 12, 2020

My experience with Shawn Dougherty has not been pleasant. During the time that I had her representing me, I never really felt she was on my side, or in my best interest – which is literally what I was paying her to do. 1. She always seemed to be in favor of the other party. a. Whatever the other party wanted she would want that too instead of asking me what I want. Even in the courtroom, she wouldn’t even save me when the other party tried to pin me down. 2. She would show unprofessionalism towards me in front of the other party. a. There had been several times where she has used profanity towards me – literally cursed at me – in front of the other party. 3. She basically used my winnings as retainer. a. When my case was finally finished, she held my money claiming it was not “ready to be picked up yet”. The money that I had won in court exceeded her retainer fee, and she held on to the money well after my case was over. When she finally let me come pick up my money, significantly less because she charged me for unnecessary fees that would not have existed if she had just given me my money when I won it. 4. Poor communication. a. My case had many intricate details that were necessary for her to be aware of in order to successfully argue in my favor. I rarely had a chance to inform her of these details, and when I did, I had to rush through it to make sure I could get out everything. Throughout the whole process she really didn’t know too much about the case. b. Shawn Dougherty and her paralegal would sign and submit documents without even letting me see the draft. She rarely updated me on what she was doing. At the end of the day, it’s all about the money for her, she’s made that quite clear. She doesn’t care about the case. Listen to me, listen to the other reviewers, because what we’re saying is valid. Get a lawyer that actually cares about your case.

anonymous
August 25, 2020

She was referred to me & I wish I had saw reviews first. First & foremost, if I wanted to be mistreated I would have stayed married. Her tone is extremely unprofessional and makes you question who she represents! She appears rushed & never has time to talk to you even though you’re paying for the call? I dread every time I need to hold a conversation with her. She’ll tell you - if you need a shoulder to cry on I’m not the attorney for you. No what I needed is an attorney who works for me and does her job regardless of how large the case is. Despite the size of the case all clients deserve proper representation. I run a business myself & ALL of my clients are important to me. She runs her business off the size of your wallet not the level of your needs. There’s were multiple issues unresolved and she flat out refused to address them. I’d not recommend her services to anyone - go find someone who is worth the money and wants to work for what you deserve! Do your research and think twice - wish I did!

anonymous
February 13, 2018

This attorney is representing my sister. We think she is anyway. So far, she's been rude, non communicative, and condenscending. My sister is afraid to call her. It's a total crap shoot as to what the end result will be. She came highly recommended, however, I will not be one to recommend her to anyone. It's a difficult enough time w out your lawyer acting like she's a putz. She has a way of making you feel she's playing for the other team. Hey lawyer lady, hows about you take less work and spend more time with your clients? Yuck

anonymous
February 10, 2018

I guess calling your attorney for advice is not what you are supposed to do with Ms. Doughtery. I would rarely call her, but when I did, she acted like I was bothering her and would snap at me. I dreaded the phone conversations with her. She had no idea who I was or what my case was about, She forgot everything we talked about two months prior. She seems afraid to go in front of the judge. She came highly recommended, but do not ever hire her.

anonymous
January 25, 2018

First of all the picture associated with this lawyer at the top is not accurate. Shawn Dougherty is a female. Secondly, find yourself a different lawyer! Unless you are extremely wealthy, she will not have the time for you. You will be just another "garden variety" divorce to her which means you are bothering her with phone calls and questions. I rarely called her and when I did she was short tempered and rude. Her assistant would email me to call Shawn and when I did Shawn would yell at me asking why I was bothering her. When I would explain her assistant told me to call she would tell me she didn't know why and would review my file and call me back. She never looked at my file before calling me which meant our conversation was a waste of time. I dreaded having to talk to her. I wish I would have chosen someone else.

J Lauer
April 22, 2016

Shawn is truly one of the most honest and educated lawyers I have ever come in contact with. She handled a very complex and high tension case with confidence ensuring the law was properly enforced. I am honored to be her client she never gave up. Shawn guaranteed my child's safety and defended my family's the best interest. I recommend Shawn Dougherty to anyone who is seeking a honest upfront lawyer that you can depend on. I can't thank her enough!

RobG
January 20, 2014

I use this attorney every time I need a a Family Law Lawyer. If your looking for somebody who is going to hold your hand or pat you on the back and tell you everything is going to be ok then this is not your lawyer. If your somebody who has their facts together and don't try to feed her a load of bull then she will fight for you. If you want to win and your not looking for a baby sitter then this is your lawyer. Great job Shawn. Thank you!!!!!!!

Jill G.
December 14, 2021

I will never refer another client to her. In my opinion, these 88% “1 star” reviews are totally accurate and you’re wasting your money on an overpriced lawyer who does nothing for her clients except send huge bills after berating them.

anonymous
November 19, 2021

I contacted Shawn Dougherty by referral and had a very thorough, educated consultation with her, which led me to hire her. It's been a nightmare since. Divorce is something I know absolutely nothing about and expected professional support and guidance-- no hand holding, no hugs as I have people in my life for that if needed.. I know nothing more about it now except that all of my questions are stupid and I talk too much for her when I've always been accused of not talking enough by anyone else. The divorce is simple, uncontested and amicable so there is not a lot of work involved but I couldn't figure out why this woman disliked me so much until I read these reviews. I now understand that this is simply who she is, not who I am. I've always had a healthy educational relationship with lawyers so it's a relief to know it's the personality I'm dealing with. So to avoid being yelled at and mocked, I simply do not call and I do not ask questions. If I need to know something, I've been informed via email so I know that will continue. It's just a shame that in the midst of dealing with something so emotional anyway, your bigger enemy turns out to be the person who is supposed to be the one fighting for you.

anonymous
May 4, 2021

Shawn was rude and condescending during our consultation. She made assumptions about my case and attacked my character with no reason to. I couldn’t even get a word in during our meeting to explain my circumstances yet she couldn’t stop telling me what I was doing wrong. Would not recommend.

anonymous
October 12, 2020

My experience with Shawn Dougherty has not been pleasant. During the time that I had her representing me, I never really felt she was on my side, or in my best interest – which is literally what I was paying her to do. 1. She always seemed to be in favor of the other party. a. Whatever the other party wanted she would want that too instead of asking me what I want. Even in the courtroom, she wouldn’t even save me when the other party tried to pin me down. 2. She would show unprofessionalism towards me in front of the other party. a. There had been several times where she has used profanity towards me – literally cursed at me – in front of the other party. 3. She basically used my winnings as retainer. a. When my case was finally finished, she held my money claiming it was not “ready to be picked up yet”. The money that I had won in court exceeded her retainer fee, and she held on to the money well after my case was over. When she finally let me come pick up my money, significantly less because she charged me for unnecessary fees that would not have existed if she had just given me my money when I won it. 4. Poor communication. a. My case had many intricate details that were necessary for her to be aware of in order to successfully argue in my favor. I rarely had a chance to inform her of these details, and when I did, I had to rush through it to make sure I could get out everything. Throughout the whole process she really didn’t know too much about the case. b. Shawn Dougherty and her paralegal would sign and submit documents without even letting me see the draft. She rarely updated me on what she was doing. At the end of the day, it’s all about the money for her, she’s made that quite clear. She doesn’t care about the case. Listen to me, listen to the other reviewers, because what we’re saying is valid. Get a lawyer that actually cares about your case.

anonymous
August 25, 2020

She was referred to me & I wish I had saw reviews first. First & foremost, if I wanted to be mistreated I would have stayed married. Her tone is extremely unprofessional and makes you question who she represents! She appears rushed & never has time to talk to you even though you’re paying for the call? I dread every time I need to hold a conversation with her. She’ll tell you - if you need a shoulder to cry on I’m not the attorney for you. No what I needed is an attorney who works for me and does her job regardless of how large the case is. Despite the size of the case all clients deserve proper representation. I run a business myself & ALL of my clients are important to me. She runs her business off the size of your wallet not the level of your needs. There’s were multiple issues unresolved and she flat out refused to address them. I’d not recommend her services to anyone - go find someone who is worth the money and wants to work for what you deserve! Do your research and think twice - wish I did!

anonymous
February 13, 2018

This attorney is representing my sister. We think she is anyway. So far, she's been rude, non communicative, and condenscending. My sister is afraid to call her. It's a total crap shoot as to what the end result will be. She came highly recommended, however, I will not be one to recommend her to anyone. It's a difficult enough time w out your lawyer acting like she's a putz. She has a way of making you feel she's playing for the other team. Hey lawyer lady, hows about you take less work and spend more time with your clients? Yuck

anonymous
February 10, 2018

I guess calling your attorney for advice is not what you are supposed to do with Ms. Doughtery. I would rarely call her, but when I did, she acted like I was bothering her and would snap at me. I dreaded the phone conversations with her. She had no idea who I was or what my case was about, She forgot everything we talked about two months prior. She seems afraid to go in front of the judge. She came highly recommended, but do not ever hire her.

anonymous
January 25, 2018

First of all the picture associated with this lawyer at the top is not accurate. Shawn Dougherty is a female. Secondly, find yourself a different lawyer! Unless you are extremely wealthy, she will not have the time for you. You will be just another "garden variety" divorce to her which means you are bothering her with phone calls and questions. I rarely called her and when I did she was short tempered and rude. Her assistant would email me to call Shawn and when I did Shawn would yell at me asking why I was bothering her. When I would explain her assistant told me to call she would tell me she didn't know why and would review my file and call me back. She never looked at my file before calling me which meant our conversation was a waste of time. I dreaded having to talk to her. I wish I would have chosen someone else.

J Lauer
April 22, 2016

Shawn is truly one of the most honest and educated lawyers I have ever come in contact with. She handled a very complex and high tension case with confidence ensuring the law was properly enforced. I am honored to be her client she never gave up. Shawn guaranteed my child's safety and defended my family's the best interest. I recommend Shawn Dougherty to anyone who is seeking a honest upfront lawyer that you can depend on. I can't thank her enough!

RobG
January 20, 2014

I use this attorney every time I need a a Family Law Lawyer. If your looking for somebody who is going to hold your hand or pat you on the back and tell you everything is going to be ok then this is not your lawyer. If your somebody who has their facts together and don't try to feed her a load of bull then she will fight for you. If you want to win and your not looking for a baby sitter then this is your lawyer. Great job Shawn. Thank you!!!!!!!

Jill G.
December 14, 2021

I will never refer another client to her. In my opinion, these 88% “1 star” reviews are totally accurate and you’re wasting your money on an overpriced lawyer who does nothing for her clients except send huge bills after berating them.

anonymous
November 19, 2021

I contacted Shawn Dougherty by referral and had a very thorough, educated consultation with her, which led me to hire her. It's been a nightmare since. Divorce is something I know absolutely nothing about and expected professional support and guidance-- no hand holding, no hugs as I have people in my life for that if needed.. I know nothing more about it now except that all of my questions are stupid and I talk too much for her when I've always been accused of not talking enough by anyone else. The divorce is simple, uncontested and amicable so there is not a lot of work involved but I couldn't figure out why this woman disliked me so much until I read these reviews. I now understand that this is simply who she is, not who I am. I've always had a healthy educational relationship with lawyers so it's a relief to know it's the personality I'm dealing with. So to avoid being yelled at and mocked, I simply do not call and I do not ask questions. If I need to know something, I've been informed via email so I know that will continue. It's just a shame that in the midst of dealing with something so emotional anyway, your bigger enemy turns out to be the person who is supposed to be the one fighting for you.

anonymous
May 4, 2021

Shawn was rude and condescending during our consultation. She made assumptions about my case and attacked my character with no reason to. I couldn’t even get a word in during our meeting to explain my circumstances yet she couldn’t stop telling me what I was doing wrong. Would not recommend.

anonymous
October 12, 2020

My experience with Shawn Dougherty has not been pleasant. During the time that I had her representing me, I never really felt she was on my side, or in my best interest – which is literally what I was paying her to do. 1. She always seemed to be in favor of the other party. a. Whatever the other party wanted she would want that too instead of asking me what I want. Even in the courtroom, she wouldn’t even save me when the other party tried to pin me down. 2. She would show unprofessionalism towards me in front of the other party. a. There had been several times where she has used profanity towards me – literally cursed at me – in front of the other party. 3. She basically used my winnings as retainer. a. When my case was finally finished, she held my money claiming it was not “ready to be picked up yet”. The money that I had won in court exceeded her retainer fee, and she held on to the money well after my case was over. When she finally let me come pick up my money, significantly less because she charged me for unnecessary fees that would not have existed if she had just given me my money when I won it. 4. Poor communication. a. My case had many intricate details that were necessary for her to be aware of in order to successfully argue in my favor. I rarely had a chance to inform her of these details, and when I did, I had to rush through it to make sure I could get out everything. Throughout the whole process she really didn’t know too much about the case. b. Shawn Dougherty and her paralegal would sign and submit documents without even letting me see the draft. She rarely updated me on what she was doing. At the end of the day, it’s all about the money for her, she’s made that quite clear. She doesn’t care about the case. Listen to me, listen to the other reviewers, because what we’re saying is valid. Get a lawyer that actually cares about your case.

anonymous
August 25, 2020

She was referred to me & I wish I had saw reviews first. First & foremost, if I wanted to be mistreated I would have stayed married. Her tone is extremely unprofessional and makes you question who she represents! She appears rushed & never has time to talk to you even though you’re paying for the call? I dread every time I need to hold a conversation with her. She’ll tell you - if you need a shoulder to cry on I’m not the attorney for you. No what I needed is an attorney who works for me and does her job regardless of how large the case is. Despite the size of the case all clients deserve proper representation. I run a business myself & ALL of my clients are important to me. She runs her business off the size of your wallet not the level of your needs. There’s were multiple issues unresolved and she flat out refused to address them. I’d not recommend her services to anyone - go find someone who is worth the money and wants to work for what you deserve! Do your research and think twice - wish I did!

anonymous
February 13, 2018

This attorney is representing my sister. We think she is anyway. So far, she's been rude, non communicative, and condenscending. My sister is afraid to call her. It's a total crap shoot as to what the end result will be. She came highly recommended, however, I will not be one to recommend her to anyone. It's a difficult enough time w out your lawyer acting like she's a putz. She has a way of making you feel she's playing for the other team. Hey lawyer lady, hows about you take less work and spend more time with your clients? Yuck

anonymous
February 10, 2018

I guess calling your attorney for advice is not what you are supposed to do with Ms. Doughtery. I would rarely call her, but when I did, she acted like I was bothering her and would snap at me. I dreaded the phone conversations with her. She had no idea who I was or what my case was about, She forgot everything we talked about two months prior. She seems afraid to go in front of the judge. She came highly recommended, but do not ever hire her.

anonymous
January 25, 2018

First of all the picture associated with this lawyer at the top is not accurate. Shawn Dougherty is a female. Secondly, find yourself a different lawyer! Unless you are extremely wealthy, she will not have the time for you. You will be just another "garden variety" divorce to her which means you are bothering her with phone calls and questions. I rarely called her and when I did she was short tempered and rude. Her assistant would email me to call Shawn and when I did Shawn would yell at me asking why I was bothering her. When I would explain her assistant told me to call she would tell me she didn't know why and would review my file and call me back. She never looked at my file before calling me which meant our conversation was a waste of time. I dreaded having to talk to her. I wish I would have chosen someone else.